Dear PoPville – Question about Serving on DC Commissions and Advisory Committees (Not ANCs)

Photo by PoPville flickr user pablo.raw

“Dear PoPville,

There was recent story on WTOP about hundreds of DC Commission and Advisory Committee seats which are unfilled. These are mayorally appointed positions on committees that advise the Mayor and the agencies on various issues. I’m wondering if any of your readers have experiences serving on these boards under the current or previous administrations and how valuable of an experience it was for them.

I’ve been looking for a way to serve the City, where I’ve lived for six years, and I this could be a great opportunity. I’ve thought about running for ANC, but that’s a larger commitment with the campaigning etc. I would be well qualified for the committees I apply for and whether the Mayor picks me or not is another story, but If anyone has served on a board or commission before, I’d love to hear about the experience. Were the opinions of the boards actually taken into consideration? Are they just used for political cover? Was it worth your time?”

Anyone serve on or are familiar with DC Commission and Advisory Committee seats? Not to be a cynic but I’m guessing many of these appointments are probably politically motivated?